Tours & Special Access
The Benson Ford Research Center remains closed to the public for in-person research, tours, and visits. It will remain closed until further notice, but research center staff members are still responding to inquiries. Please visit here for more information.
Our tours are designed for groups who are interested in going behind the scenes at The Henry Ford.
General Benson Ford Research Center Tour
Get a closer look at some of The Henry Ford's most precious collections, such as Thomas Edison's patent models, as well as folk art and paintings, the personal and business papers of Henry Ford, domestic textiles such as quilts and coverlets, and couture fashion and accessories.
Conservation Laboratory Tour
Experience the work and expertise of our Conservation staff as they preserve The Henry Ford’s treasures.
Each program lasts 60 minutes. Tours are available weekly, Monday-Friday, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and accommodate up to 15 people per tour (for more than 15 people, additional timeslots need to be booked). The fee is $200 per 15 visitors.
For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact The Henry Ford’s Call Center at 313.982.6001 (press 1).
Special Access
Individuals who would like access to The Henry Ford’s collections that cannot be accommodated in the usual ways (such as viewing exhibits on display, using online collections, or researching materials in the public Reading Room) can request an appointment with Special Access staff. Special needs could include filming certain areas of our campus, going behind barriers, or viewing artifacts not currently on exhibit. Please note that two weeks’ notice is generally required to make arrangements for a Special Access visit.
For more information on this fee-based program, please email research.center@thehenryford.org.
